Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Thelonious MONK - The Unique Thelonious Monk 1955

Great trio work with a unique talent at the keys, but this is tempered by the fact that, while Monk had all those great pioneering original compositions written, when he signed with Riverside in 1955, producer Orrin Keepnews persuaded him to first record standards so he would appear more accessible to the average jazz fan. It's fascinating to here him interpret these well-known tunes in his inimitable way, and this may serve as a low-risk way for a newbie to check out Monk, but it's down the list of critical Monk album's to begin building a collection with. "Brilliant Corners" or "Monk's Music" are better places to start for those bold enough to sample pure genius. Also, Pettiford and Blakey are excellent but fairly restrained here, as the purpose of this recording was to showcase Monk's playing. Still, if you love Monk and jazz standards, this is pure ear candy. By J. Levinson.**Oscar Pettiford- Bass Art Blakey- Drums Thelonious Monk- Piano **A1. Liza 3:13 A2. Memories Of You 4:17 A3. Honeysuckle Rose 5:34 A4. Darn That Dream 6:30 B1. Tea For Two 5:55 B2. You Are Too Beautiful 4:56 B3. Just You, Just Me 7:57 **NoPassword*DLink*